The 10th edition of the prestigious Maltina Teacher of the Year competition culminated with a powerful reminder of the pivotal role teachers play in shaping the future of the nation. This landmark event celebrated the outstanding contributions of educators from both public and private schools across Nigeria.
At the grand finale in Lagos, Esomnofu Chidiebube Ifechukwu, from Crown Grace School in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, was announced as the winner. The Nigerian Breweries Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund, the driving force behind the competition, reiterated its unwavering commitment to building a sustainable education system in Nigeria.
Sade Morgan, Corporate Affairs Director of NB PLC and the Trust Fund, expressed delight at the competition’s impact since its inception in 2015. “We are thrilled to crown our new champion and welcome esteemed dignitaries. Maltina has always been about spreading joy, and through this competition, we’ve honored 241 exceptional teachers who have touched countless lives.”
Morgan highlighted the fresh new theme of the 10th edition: “A Decade of Inspiring Excellence in Teaching”—and the significant increase in prizes, with the winner receiving N10 million, up from N6.5 million, and the runners-up awarded N3 million and N2 million, respectively. A record-breaking 1,300 valid entries poured in, resulting in 37 state champions, including one from the Federal Capital Territory. “These milestones,” she noted, “are the crown jewels of our decade-long journey, validating our relentless efforts to uplift the teaching profession and inspire future generations.”
In his address, Dr. Ibrahim Adedotun Abdul, Rector of Yaba College of Technology, representing the Minister of State for Education, lauded Nigerian Breweries and the Felix Ohiwerei Trust Fund for their steadfast dedication to education. “No society can thrive without a strong educational system, and no system can succeed without dedicated teachers. Initiatives like the Maltina Teacher of the Year inspire and empower teachers, helping our schools strive for excellence.”
Prof. Pat Utomi, Chairman of the competition’s judging panel, praised the passion and commitment of the teachers. “This year’s competition was the most fiercely contested, reflecting the growing standards of our education system. The beauty of this competition lies in its ability to honor teachers’ selfless contributions, enriching them not just financially but intellectually.”
Esomnofu Chidiebube Ifechukwu, the ultimate winner, will receive N10 million and an all-expenses-paid capacity development training abroad. His school will also benefit from a N20 million facility, either a fully equipped computer laboratory or a six-classroom block built in his honor. First runner-up, Kehinde Oladapo Olukayode of Molusi College, Ijebu Igbo, and second runner-up, Aniefiok Iniobong Udoh of Community Secondary Commercial School, Akwa Ibom, were also recognized for their remarkable dedication to teaching.
This event not only spotlights the remarkable contributions of Nigeria’s unsung heroes; its teachers, but also reinforces the profound impact they have on the future of the nation.
